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Shakiel Shazad failed to return to Sudbury prison and is currently on the run, say police (Picture: West Yorkshire Police/PA)

An arsonist who was sentenced to 18 years in prison for starting a fire which killed eight members of the same family has gone on the run.

Shakiel Shazad, 33, was released from Sudbury prison on a work license yesterday when he absconded and is now ‘unlawfully at large’, Derbyshire police said.

He was sentenced in July 2003 for his part in the fire which spread through a property in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, the year before.

Police say that Shazad, who is described as Asian, 5ft 6in, with short black hair, a black beard and brown eyes, has connections in Yorkshire.

A spokesman said: ‘Anyone with any information about the whereabouts of this man is asked not to approach him but to immediately contact their local police or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.’

Three men – Shazad, Shaied Iqbal and Nasar Hussain – were convicted of the crime, while a fourth – Shaid Mohammed – went on the run and has never been captured.

Eight members of the Chishti family, ranging from six months to 54 years old, died in the blaze.